- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$43
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$125
Fastest journey on Sep 08
3 h 28 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
3 h 33 m
Trains on Sep 08
50
Distance
283 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Liverpool to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Liverpool to Edinburgh will cost around $125 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
It's difficult to get from Liverpool to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
W84746 · W85210
G15989+
P28614+
W85164
W84725 · W85210
W84730 · W85210
G89641+
W85210
W84746 · W85210
W34286+
G86226
W34213+
G86217
W33941+
G86251
W34144+
G86232Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Liverpool to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $58 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 27m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $58, while a train costs an average of $72.
Distance: 175 miles (283 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$72 Average price | $58 Average price Cheapest | $123 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 27m Average total duration Fastest 4h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 25m Average total duration 6h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Liverpool to Edinburgh:
A bus is $15 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Liverpool to Edinburgh costing on average $72.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 57m.
Bus takes on average 6h 55m.
Tickets start at around $72 compared to roughly $123 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $51. The journey takes 4h 57m versus 4h 28m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Liverpool to Edinburgh trains for today, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G86242+ W34290 | On time 2:45 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h35 | 6:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W84825 · C24526+ G80251 | On time 2:54 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h43 | 7:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W85197 · W85201 | On time 4:12 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h28 | 7:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W84712 · W85206 · W85208 | On time 4:19 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 5h19 | 9:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W84712 · W85208 | On time 4:19 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 5h19 | 9:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86219+ W34289 | On time 4:45 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h39 | 8:24 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W84719 · W85208 | On time 5:19 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h19 | 9:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G89633+ W85208 | On time 5:39 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h59 | 9:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86227+ W34287+ W85208 | On time 5:45 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h53 | 9:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G89637+ W34291 | On time 6:39 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h42 | 10:21 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
C24432 · G16319+ G80273 | On time 6:54 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h45 | 11:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
| Tuesday, September 8 | |||||
G15989+ P28614+ W85164 | 5:20 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h21 | 9:41 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G86248+ W34023+ W85164 | 5:43 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h58 | 9:41 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W84653 · W85168 | 6:14 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 5h23 | 11:37 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
P24212+ W34213 | 6:17 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h02 | 10:19 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86217+ W34213 | 6:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h34 | 10:19 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
P24216+ W34046+ W85168 | 7:22 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h15 | 11:37 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G89632+ W85168 | 7:39 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h58 | 11:37 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W33878 · W34144 | 7:40 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h40 | 12:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86225+ W34046+ W85168 | 7:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h52 | 11:37 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
P24221+ W34144 | 8:22 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h58 | 12:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86232+ W34144 | 8:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h35 | 12:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W84670 · W85177 | 9:19 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h13 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
P24225+ C01369+ W85177 | 9:22 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h10 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G89639+ W85177 | 9:39 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h53 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86241+ C01369+ W85177 | 9:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h47 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W84677 · W85182 | 10:19 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 5h17 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
P24229+ W33941 | 10:22 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h57 | 2:19 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86251+ W33941 | 10:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h34 | 2:19 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W84683 · W85182 | 11:19 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h17 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
P24234+ W33935+ W85182 | 11:22 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h14 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G89647+ W85182 | 11:39 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h57 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86218+ W33935+ W85182 | 11:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h51 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W84689 · W85191 | 12:19 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 5h21 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
P24237+ W34286 | 12:22 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h56 | 4:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86226+ W34286 | 12:45 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h33 | 4:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W84695 · W85191 | 1:19 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h21 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
P24240+ C01372+ W85191 | 1:22 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h18 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G89657+ W85191 | 1:39 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h01 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86233+ C01372+ W85191 | 1:43 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h57 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Liverpool to Edinburgh run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $42 but you can travel from only $38 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:17, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 175 miles (283 km) distance in 3h 24m.
Distance 175 miles (283 km) |
Average train duration 4h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 24m |
First train 12:17 AM |
Last train 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 91 days |
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet, onion and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s national dish and central to Burns Suppers.
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
A hearty soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions in milk or cream. Strongly linked to Scotland’s fishing heritage and widely loved in Edinburgh.
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
The train connection between Liverpool and Edinburgh offers a convenient and scenic way to travel between these two cities. Passengers can choose from several providers, including Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, and London North Eastern Railway. With frequent services available throughout the day, travelers can enjoy comfortable rides while taking in the picturesque landscapes of northern England and southern Scotland along the route.
The train journey from Liverpool to Edinburgh takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. There are no direct connections available, with an average of 7 trains operating daily between the two cities. Passengers will need to make at least one transfer during their trip.
The first daily journey from Liverpool to Edinburgh departs at 04:33, allowing early travelers to start their day with a scenic train ride. The last departure is scheduled for 19:44, providing an option for those who wish to explore the vibrant culture of both cities before heading back in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey from Liverpool to Edinburgh is €26. The average ticket price typically hovers around €84, making it essential to book in advance or look out for deals if you're aiming to save on your travel expenses.
Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century and has served as both a royal residence and military stronghold. Its significance lies in being one of Scotland's most iconic symbols, showcasing the nation's tumultuous past through its impressive architecture and historical artifacts like the Honours of Scotland. Unique features include St Margaret’s Chapel—the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh—and panoramic views that offer breathtaking vistas of the city below.
Holyrood Palace stands at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and is an official residence for The Queen when she visits Scotland; it embodies centuries of royal heritage since its establishment in 1501. This magnificent palace holds great significance not only as a home but also as a site where key events in Scottish history unfolded, including Mary Queen of Scots' dramatic life story. Visitors are captivated by unique elements such as beautifully landscaped gardens and opulent state apartments filled with exquisite art collections.
Arthur's Seat is an ancient volcano rising majestically from Holyrood Park, offering visitors stunning natural beauty alongside fascinating geological history that dates back millions of years. As one of Edinburgh’s most beloved landmarks, it holds cultural significance tied to local legends—many believe it's named after King Arthur himself or his knights who once roamed these hills. What sets this landmark apart are its accessible hiking trails leading to sweeping views over the cityscape while providing an escape into nature right within urban surroundings.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Liverpool to Edinburgh by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Liverpool to Edinburgh trains use the Liverpool Lime Street to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Liverpool and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Liverpool Lime Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, Upper Crust, Starbucks, JD Wetherspoon
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are located near Platform 7.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:38, Sun: 07:15 - 23:05. Information desks are located in the main concourse.
Luggage storage is the Excess Baggage Co. lockers and staffed luggage storage counter are located in the main concourse near the escalators across from Platform 6. Open daily 08:00 to 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Liverpool Lime Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Liverpool Lime Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool Lime Street: Full wheelchair access throughout the station, with help points at the Skelhorne Street entrance and at customer information desk in the main concourse.
Nearby hotels include Pembroke Studios, Riley’s Rooms, Holiday Inn Liverpool City Center.
Moorfields has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Moorfields.
Wi-Fi is available at Moorfields. ATMs are available at Moorfields.
Ticket office support is available at Moorfields. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Moorfields: Parking, WC.
Available at Moorfields: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Moorfields: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform” Platforms via Moorfields entrance are accessible via lifts. However the Old Hall Street entrance has no disabled access, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Liverpool Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Liverpool Central.
Wi-Fi is available at Liverpool Central. ATMs are available at Liverpool Central.
Ticket office support is available at Liverpool Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Liverpool Central: Parking, WC.
Available at Liverpool Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform” All platforms can be accessed via lift, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Edinburgh Waverley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Haymarket has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Haymarket.
Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.
Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Haymarket: Parking, WC.
Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Edinburgh Park is 7 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Edinburgh Park has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Edinburgh Park.
Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh Park.
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Park: Parking.
Available at Edinburgh Park: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Park: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to both platforms, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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